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Growing a healthy banana tree with the help of radiant heat

First of all, to clarify, bananas don’t grow on trees. The stem of the banana plant is actually a large rhizome growing horizontally underground. The shoots that emerge from that are what we often refer to as the “trunk” is actually tightly wrapped leaves called the pseudostem (false stem). Since banana shoots don’t become woody like trees, botanists refer to them as giant herbaceous plants.

With the proper temperature, moisture, nutrients and care these plants can grow in to the impressive, large-leafed displays we enjoy. And now, with a low-voltage radiant heating system by STEP Warmfloor “going bananas” is easier than ever year round, anywhere you live. They can grow outside in large containers and be moved indoors as temperatures cool.

Monica is President of Electro Plastics, Inc., manufacturer of STEP Warmfloor® heating systems: a patented, low-voltage, self-regulating flat and thin heater. Monica has been in the radiant heating industry for over 20 years. She was member of the Radiant Panel Association for 15 years, served on the RPA Board of Directors as chairperson of the Electric Committee and the Green Committee. Monica is also a member of the USGBC and has been involved in the design of LEED registered buildings.